How can I care for my cassette player?
Readers are reminded to keep food and beverages away from cassette players. Spills into the machines can cause the equipment to fail and make for messy and lengthy cleanup. Direct sunlight and excessive heat can also cause problems for equipment and cassettes.

The C1 cassette player is designed to play either unplugged from its rechargeable battery or to play while plugged into an electrical outlet. If the machine will be used in a portable fashion, it does need to be played unplugged until the battery is completely run down. This will keep the battery from forming a shorter memory for operating time unplugged. The machine should then be plugged into an outlet and be allowed to charge without playing for at least 8 hours or overnight. It is OK to plug the machine in to finish listening if the battery runs down in the middle of your reading.

If the machine is to be used in a fixed location, it does not need to be unplugged to discharge the battery. It will not damage the player to leave it plugged in continuously. However, if you decide to then use the machine on the battery, it will play for only a short time before losing power.

What should I do if the cassette plays too fast?
Sometimes a cassette will play too fast. If this occurs, check the speed selector switch to be sure it is in the 15/16 position. If the cassette still plays too fast, remove the cassette from the machine and make sure that none of the tape is spilling from the cassette, or that the tape hasn't been slightly pushed into the cassette. Insert a pen or your finger into one of the holes of the cassette, and turn so that the tape tightens up. Be sure when reinserting the cassette into the machine that you do not touch the tape. Keep your fingers on the plastic shell portion of the cassette.

Should I repair my own equipment?
Please do not attempt to repair library equipment. If your equipment is not performing properly, contact the library for a replacement machine. If the defective machine cannot be exchanged in person, a replacement machine can be mailed to you immediately when you contact the library by telephone. Please do not assume that when you return a defective piece of equipment, you will receive a replacement.

Can I purchase my own equipment?
None of the models of equipment loaned by the library are for sale. However, there are national and local sources for the purchase of cassette players that are compatible with materials provided by the library.

How do I return equipment?
Equipment may be returned in person or through the mail, postage-free. The library does not deliver or pick up equipment. To receive a replacement machine, you must telephone the library. The box in which the new machine arrives may be used to return a defective machine.

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